Pakistan and Bangladesh to Resume Direct Flights from December

Direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh are set to resume in December after a hiatus of several years, marking a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and bilateral relations. Bangladesh's High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain Khan, announced the development, highlighting its importance for strengthening ties between the two nations. This resumption follows an improvement in diplomatic relations earlier this year, paving the way for renewed air travel.

Mahan Air, an Iranian privately owned airline, is slated to initiate three weekly flights between Dhaka and Karachi starting next month. Additionally, two Pakistani private carriers, Fly Jinnah and AirSial, have also secured approval from Bangladeshi aviation authorities to operate direct services on this route. While specific launch dates for all airlines were not detailed, the move signifies a concerted effort to re-establish crucial air links.

The decision to restart direct flights comes amidst improving relations between Dhaka and Islamabad, particularly since the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took office in Bangladesh in August 2024. This political shift has facilitated advancements on multiple fronts, including the simplification of the visa process, which now allows for quicker issuance on joint recommendations, aiming to make travel more efficient for business communities.

Beyond passenger services, the enhanced connectivity is expected to significantly boost economic cooperation. A direct cargo shipping service between Pakistan and Bangladesh is also anticipated to launch soon, complementing an existing cargo service that began last December. Business leaders, such as LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol, project that bilateral trade could surge from the current USD 700 million to USD 3 billion within the next few years, driven by improved logistics and easier travel.